King Norodom Sihamoni (2019)

Norodom Sihamoni ( km, នរោត្តម សីហមុនី, ; born 14 May 1953) is King of Cambodia. He became King on 14 October 2004, a week after the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk. He is the eldest son of Norodom Sihanouk and former Queen Consort Norodom Monineath and was Cambodia's ambassador to UNESCO, prior to his selection by a nine-member throne council to become the next king. Before ascending to the throne, Sihamoni was educated in Czechoslovakia and was best known for his work as a cultural ambassador in Europe and as a classical dance instructor.

Early life

Name and family

Sihamoni was born on Thursday, 14 May 1953, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. His given name "Sihamoni" comprises two morphemes from his parents' given names "Sihanouk" and "Monineath". At the time of his birth and that of his younger brother, his mother Monique Izzi, a Khmer citizen of French, Corsican and Khmer ancestry, had been one of King Norodom Sihanouk's consorts after being a constant companion since the day they met in 1951, when she won first prize in a national beauty contest.

The queen was granted the title of ''Neak Moneang'' and the name of Monineath at the time of her marriage to King Norodom Sihanouk in 1952. Furthermore, Queen Monineath is a step-granddaughter of the late Prince Norodom Duong Chakr of Cambodia, and the daughter of Pomme Peang and of her second husband, Jean-François Izzi, a Corsican banker.

Sihamoni has 14 half-brothers and half-sisters by his father; his only full sibling, a younger brother, Samdech Norodom Narindrapong, was born in 1954 and died in 2003.

Education and life abroad

The then Prince Sihamoni first began his education in 1959, where he attended Norodom School, followed by Lycée Descartes School in Phnom Penh, developing a keen interest in the arts early on in his life.

In 1962 the young Sihamoni was sent to Prague in Czechoslovakia by his father to study abroad. There, he completed his early education at Majakovskeho Primary School and later at Ostrovni Elementary School. When he was in his preadolescence years, he starred in a production of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s ''The Nutcracker'' at the prestigious Prague National Theatre, where he pursued private ballet and piano classes and was once even selected for a television rendition of '' Brundibár'', a well-known children's opera. He then concluded his secondary education at the National Prague Conservatory and was regarded as an able student, getting high marks. Here, he further developed his interest in the performing arts, undertaking courses in this field and excelling at the top of his class. Furthermore, he attained great fluency in Czech. A movie directed by Vladimir Sís was shot about the prince in Prague in 1967, under the name ''The Other Little Prince'' (''Jiný malý princ''). The prince would occasionally visit his homeland for holidays of which when he did, he involved himself in Cambodia's arts and cultural scene, including starring in a film made by his father and performing ballet. During the 1970 Cambodian coup d'état by Lon Nol, Sihamoni remained in Czechoslovakia.

Between 1971 and 1975, Sihamoni completed his higher education in classical dance and music at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, culminating with the attainment of a Master's degree for which he wrote a thesis titled ''The Conception and Administration of Artistic Schools in Cambodia.'' After graduation in 1975 he left Prague and began to study filmmaking in North Korea.

Return to Cambodia

However, in 1976, Sihamoni was forced to come back to Cambodia after having been deceived by the Khmer Rouge with a forged telegram, undersigned by King Sihanouk ordering his return. Immediately, the ruling Khmer Rouge regime headed by Pol Pot turned against the monarchy, and put the royal family including Sihamoni, his brother Prince Norodom Narindrapong, his mother Queen Norodom Monineath, his father King Norodom Sihanouk under house arrest in the Royal Palace during much of the period of Democratic Kampuchea. The consequent Cambodian genocide saw several members of the wider royal family killed and Sihamoni and his immediate family lived in daily fear for their lives, effectively shut off from the outside world. With the 1979 Vietnamese Invasion, which ousted the Khmer Rouge, the family was airlifted to China and Sihamoni subsequently worked as a secretary for his father.

Career

In 1981 Sihamoni moved to France to teach ballet as a professor of classical dance and artistic pedagogy, a position which he held for almost two decades, at various conservatoires, including the Marius Petipa Conservatory, the Gabriel Faure Conservatory and the W.A. Mozart Conservatory. He was also later president of the Khmer Dance Association there. He lived in France for nearly 20 years and continued his pursuit in the arts, including establishing 'Ballet Deva', an original dance troupe, in which he served as its General Manager and Artistic Director, alongside heading the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation. During this time, he undertook monkhood under the auspices of Samdech Bour Kry, who would later become a supreme patriarch of Cambodia.

In the early 1990s, Cambodia's Supreme National Council, which was recognized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 668 as part of the transitional process in the country pursuant to the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, unanimously selected Prince Sihamoni as its permanent representative to the United Nations. The year 1993 saw the prince being appointed Cambodia's permanent representative to UNESCO in Paris, a role he held right until he became King in 2004. In this role he became known for his hard work and devotion to Cambodian culture. He had previously refused an appointment as Cambodia's ambassador to France.

Reign

Accession and coronation

On 14 October 2004 Sihamoni was selected by a special nine-member council, part of a selection process that was quickly put in place after the surprise abdication of King Norodom Sihanouk a week before, given there was no provisions at that time in Cambodia's constitution that covered the subject of abdication. Prince Sihamoni's selection was endorsed by Prime Minister Hun Sen and the then National Assembly President Prince Norodom Ranariddh (Sihamoni's half-brother), both members of the throne council. King Sihanouk backed the decision as well. Sihamoni was said to have been reluctant to take on the role, but nevertheless accepted it in the national interest, returning on 20 October to Phnom Penh, accompanied by his parents, King-Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath, to an estimated 100,000 people who lined their motorcade route from Phnom Penh International Airport to the Royal Palace to welcome the soon-to-be King.

He was then inaugurated and formally appointed as King on 29 October 2004 in a coronation ceremony centered at the Royal Palace in the capital. The coronation was noted for its relative simplicity, which was specifically requested by King-Father Sihanouk. King Sihamoni himself did not want the ceremonies to be too lavish because he did not wish for the impoverished country to spend too much money on the event, opting for a more modest affair. In a break with precedent, Sihamoni did not assume his seat on the higher, elevated throne nor did he wore the gold-and-diamond monarchial crown that came with the royal regalia. In his first speech as monarch, he acknowledged words of wisdom imparted to him by his father and pledged to be a king of the people by saying:

On 29 October 2014, there were celebrations to mark the 10th anniversary of his coronation. Well-wishers representing different cross sections of the kingdom's population congregated outside the royal palace to commemorate the occasion and pay their respects to the King.

Privy advisory council

On 12 December 2008, Sihamoni selected twenty-six members of the Cambodian royal family to his advisory court, among them his half-brother and former Prime Minister Prince Norodom Ranariddh as chief advisor and president of the council. Other choices included Prince Sisowath Sirirath, Princess Norodom Marie (estranged wife of Prince Ranariddh) and Prince Sisowath Thomico.''More royals could face political exit''
''The Phnom Penh Post'', 12 December 2008 The King's half-sister and Cambodia's former Ambassador to Malaysia, Princess Norodom Arunrasmy and uncle, Prince Norodom Sirivudh were also duly appointed members. The appointments was seen at the time by observers as signaling the cessation of royal family members participating in politics as theoretically, the constitution did not allow individuals to concurrently serve in both the royal court and government. Indeed, royalism has long been a staple in Cambodian political history, with periods where royalist parties had once governed the country, such as the Sangkum of then-Prince Sihanouk in the 1950s and 1960s and the FUNCINPEC party of Prince Ranariddh in the 1990s. Responding to the commentary, some ruling party officials and members of the royal family insisted that there was no agenda behind the move, and that it should not be construed as the prohibition or end of royal political involvement, despite the influence and electoral success of royalist political parties having waned significantly over time.

Philanthropy

King Sihamoni's reign has been focused on the wellbeing of the Khmer people. He has been described by some as a humble monarch because of his philanthropic endeavours. For example, in 2010, in the aftermath of the tragic stampede at Koh Pich in the capital that saw hundreds killed and injured, he reached out to the victims and their families, donating money to every household who had lost a family member in the incident, as well as financially supporting those who were injured. Another example was in 2016, where he donated the $6.5 million proceeds that was gained from the selling of the royal residence in Koh Kong to the Kantha Bopha Children's Hospital founded by Beat Richner, which was the largest donation ever made in the hospital's history. Furthermore, in 2018, upon learning about the situation of people affected by flooding in the provinces, he contributed essential goods to over 500 Cambodian families. At times, he has even assisted his fellow citizens first-hand during adverse events, such as venturing out into flooded areas and handing out goods to victims directly. Additionally, Sihamoni reportedly donates to the Cambodian Red Cross on a regular basis and has authorized royal grants for infrastructure, schools, orphanages, struggling communities, religious institutions, people affected by a disability, rehabilitation centres, mental health organizations, and sponsoring student's trips among others. His philanthropy extends in the international context as well, like for instance, after Hurricane Katrina, the King made a personal good-will donation to victims of the storm.

Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, King Sihamoni, alongside Queen Mother Norodom Monineath has donated well over $1 million to the Royal Government of Cambodia's efforts to address the situation in Cambodia, inspiring a concerted public campaign across the country. Moreover, the King has made contributions in the provision of essential supplies, including donations of food, water and face masks to Cambodians severely impacted by COVID-19. In July 2022, he contributed $500,000 towards ongoing demining efforts in the nation, which is still plagued by problematic landmines leftover from decades of conflict.

Political role

The King rarely gets involved in the Cambodian political space, in conformance with his position as a constitutional monarch and is considered to be 'above politics'. Some Cambodian opposition figures, however, have called for him to be more vocal and directly involved in the political issues of the country, like his predecessor, King-father Norodom Sihanouk was, contending that the King has the constitutional prerogative to do so, in terms of powers accorded to him. Conversely, others have cautioned against this notion, citing that the constitution strictly warrants for a predominantly ceremonial monarch that “reign, but shall not govern”, noting that resorting to political intervention is neither in the long-term interests of the monarchy nor nation, and Sihamoni since the outset of his reign, has pledged and adhered to a largely apolitical stance. Indeed, during the monarchical selection process, King Sihanouk touted then Prince Sihamoni's neutral and impartial approach to politics as a key trait for why he is suited to the role. This is reinforced by analysis from observers that Sihamoni "has represented both continuity and change - withdrawing royalty from active politics, but advancing it as a symbol of national reconciliation", thereby restoring the "monarchy's traditional role as an ‘umbrella’ under which Cambodians could unite." In turn, observers argue that this limits any politicization of the monarchy as an institution whilst maintaining its neutrality as well as legitimacy, especially amid the context of the sometimes controversial and turbulent nature of Cambodian politics.

Bilateral border dispute

Nevertheless, there has been several occasions where Sihamoni’s reluctance to be involved in the political arena have been tested. In 2005, in the first major political challenge of his reign, it was reported that he was hesitant to authorize the royal assent for the government’s plans to give effect to a controversial border treaty with neighbouring Vietnam, which was compounded by his predecessor, King-father Sihanouk's objection. This apparently caused tension with the government after Prime Minister Hun Sen expressed frustration about the royal assent delay to the point that abolition of the monarchy was suggested. Sihamoni eventually signed the treaty, after having been assured by government and legislative officials as well as other members of the royal family, that no land would be ceded to Vietnam as a result of the promulgation of the bilateral treaty.

Political pardons

In 2006, at the government’s petition, he granted a pardon to leading opposition politicians, namely Sam Rainsy and Cheam Channy, who originally had their parliamentary immunity annulled and were facing charges viewed as politically motivated. In regards to Rainsy, he was embroiled in a legal dispute with Prime Minister Hun Sen, over the 1997 grenade attack incident on a political rally, which injured Rainsy, as he was giving a speech. He had accused Prime Minister Sen of being involved, an accusation that the Prime Minister denies, though Rainsy later expressed regret in making the claim. As for Channy, he was designated as a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty International, where he was convicted for fraud and in attempting to conspire to overthrow the government. At the time, the move by Sihamoni was founded to be encouraging by international observers as it indicated a conciliatory gesture that points to a reduction of political tensions and restoration of multi-party democracy in the country.

In 2009, Sihamoni upon reviewing the appeals made to him for the review of the conviction verdict against opposition-affiliated journalist and editor, Hang Chakra who was jailed on charges of “criminal disinformation”, sought the government's support for a prospective royal pardon. The appeals were made to him in his capacity as a member of the Supreme Council of the Magistracy. This request was reportedly rejected by the government for reasons not stated, but it was eventually later accepted, of which Sihamoni went on to grant a full pardon to Chakra in 2010.

General election 2013 and aftermath

In the lead-up to the 2013 Cambodian general election, Sihamoni at the request of the government, granted a royal pardon which enabled then Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy, who had been in self-imposed exile since 2009, to partake in the election which was welcomed by the United Nations. Prior to the pardoning, Rainsy had founded himself in legal jeopardy once again due to another politically-motivated charge brought against him arising from an incident in 2009. When the election outcome became disputed between the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), the subsequent aftermath resulted in the 2013–2014 Cambodian protests. Consequently, in what is regarded as the first time he had intervened directly to try to resolve a political dispute, the King attempted to play a mediating role and urged for national reconciliation, by exercising his moral authority to facilitate talks between the two party leaders, Rainsy and Prime Minister Hun Sen, imploring a de-escalation of tensions and for the parties to find common ground towards a resolution regarding their issues, which eventually they settled. After this, Sihamoni encouraged the two sides to "continue to work together for the sake of stability, development and national unity" and for a time, there was a 'culture of dialogue' between the rival political parties. This period of dialogue was relatively short-lived as tensions soon manifested again that culminated in the dissolution of the CNRP in late 2017 and the reallocation of the party’s seats that they won in the 2013 elections to other political parties in concurrence with the gradual persecution of members associated with CNRP.

Controversial legislations

In the same year, a piece of legislation was introduced, named the Political Parties Law, that human rights organisations saw was a means of further curtailing the power of the opposition in the run-up to the 2018 Cambodian general election. When it came to the formalization of this law through the required royal assent, Sihamoni was coincidentally overseas, thereby delegating the royal assent duties to the President of the Senate, who constitutionally serves as the acting head of state in the King’s absence. This then prompted speculation as to whether there was an underlying reasoning behind the timing of his overseas trip. Around the same time, as the legislative processes was taking place to enact this law, a letter emerged, of which Sihamoni had encouraged for all Cambodians to vote without intimidation ahead of the 2017 Cambodian communal elections, 2017 communal elections.

Similarly, in February 2018, in relation to the Lèse-majesté Law, which too had concerns expressed about it by various observers, speculation was fuelled again, when the King did not directly sign this legislation into law, due to a planned foreign trip. Some analysts maintained that this did not merely occur by chance, though others advised that such assumptions are not grounded in facts, without any confirmation. Regardless, commentators noted that it added to a perception that Sihamoni opts and tends to be overseas, especially when it comes to the signing of highly contentious legislations.

Elections 2018 and developments

In 2018, after the 2018 Cambodian general election, general election and 2018 Cambodian Senate election, senate election, which saw the ruling CPP retaining power, winning virtually every seat in both houses of parliament, much to the consternation of members of the now-dissolved opposition, international observers and human rights groups, whom all expressed concerns about the deteriorating state of political affairs in the country, not least, the lack of a viable opposition, Sihamoni convened the opening of the national legislature. He had urged parliamentarians in both the National Assembly (Cambodia), National Assembly and Senate (Cambodia), Senate to protect the rights of all Cambodians and seek ways to bring about national unity and in bettering the lives of the overall populace, whilst highlighting the nation's long path towards peace and development. Several Western countries boycotted the opening, but the King noted in his speech that the opening of parliament was nonetheless constitutionally mandated.

In recent years, again at the request of the government, he has approved political clemency requests for several former members of the dissolved CNRP to participate in politics again, like for example in 2020, with respect to former chief whip Son Chhay and in 2021, with Pol Ham, who was a deputy party president. Both Chhay and Ham were amongst at least 32 former CNRP political figures, as of February 2022, that the King has politically rehabilitated. Sihamoni, also had granted a royal pardon for Rainsy’s deputy and later successor, Kem Sokha who had defamation charges against him stemming from an alleged adultery, though his separate treason charge still remains. Aside from the CNRP related cases aforementioned, other high-profile pardons include that of land rights activist Tep Vanny and Australian filmmaker James Ricketson.

Elections 2022 and ASEAN summitry

In the 2022 Cambodian communal elections, 2022 communal elections, he reiterated his call for all eligible Cambodians to participate in the civic process by exercising their right to vote, and to “not worry about oppression, threats or intimidation from any person or party at all”, something that he had previously urged a few years back in the 2017 Cambodian communal elections, 2017 communal elections.

At the ASEAN summit in November 2022, Sihamoni hosted regional leaders at the royal palace where he reinforced Cambodia’s commitment to the ASEAN community and emphasised the continued importance of inter-state collaboration in addressing contemporary issues. Later, at the interrelated 43rd General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, he further touched upon several topics. This included the centrality of peace in relation to socio-economic development, healthcare and educational investment, concern regarding the 2021–2022 Myanmar civil war, Myanmar conflict, the impact of increasing tensions between Potential superpower, global powers, the threat of nuclear weapons, climate change, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cultural advocacy

Sihamoni also remains an ardent advocate for Cambodian arts and culture. For instance, in 2006, when he was designated by the International Theatre Institute as its 'Message Author' for International Dance Day, he extolled the symbolism and virtue of dance, with reference to the Royal Ballet of Cambodia. In 2012, he presided over the opening of ''L'ombrello di Beatocello'', a documentary film by Georges Gachot showcasing the life's work of famed Swiss pediatrician, Beat Richner. Likewise, in 2017, he did the same at the global premiere of acclaimed Cambodian-based film, ''First They Killed My Father (film), First They Killed My Father'', directed by Academy Awards, Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie, documenting the experiences of Loung Ung, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge. The King is a strong proponent of Theravada, buddhism and of the Buddhism in Cambodia, integral place it maintains in the cultural life of the Khmer nation, and he usually officiates key festivals on the Buddhist calendar. Moreover, he supports the work of the country's Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (Cambodia), Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts whom reportedly engages regularly in consultations with him on advancing their overall strategic agenda. Additionally, as King, he presides over the annual Bon Om Touk, a major festive cultural event on the yearly calendar with ancient roots dating back to the Khmer Empire, in conjunction with other traditionally important national events like for example, Independence Day of Cambodia, Independence Day, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, and Khmer New Year.

Furthermore, Sihamoni has been commended for his dedication to archaeological preservation, conservation and research, with specificity to Cambodia. In particular, as Honorary President of ICC-Angkor (International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of Historic Site of Angkor), King Sihamoni places special emphasis on the efforts to protect this National symbols of Cambodia, national symbol and National treasure, treasure, engaging frequently with the body's work through fulfilling representative functions or routine briefings given directly to him or via a delegated senior representative. In 2011, he attended the completion ceremony pertaining to restoration works at the Baphuon historical temple in Angkor. In late 2021, he championed Cambodia's bid for the proposed inclusion of Koh Ker, an ancient Khmer archaeological site, alongside Bokator, one of the kingdom's oldest martial arts on the UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage and World Heritage Site lists.

Overseas visits

In the international arena, his first official foreign trip as King was to China in 2004, where he met with President of the People's Republic of China, President Hu Jintao, indicative of a strong friendship long established from the days of his Norodom Sihanouk, father between China and the Cambodian royal family. Here, he routinely also undertakes bi-yearly visits to Beijing for general medical check-ups, though in a private capacity. In 2015, he attended the United Nations 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP21 summit, and gave an impassioned speech highlighting the impact of the climate crisis on Cambodia and urging international efforts on this front to be expedited. He represented Cambodia at the 2019 UNESCO Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) in Beijing aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and intercultural exchange. Other notable trips include to Japan, where he was the first Cambodian sovereign since the monarchical restoration of the 1990s to visit, his "second homeland" of the Czech Republic where he spent his childhood, and France, Cambodia's former colonial power.

Public image

In contrast to his father, former King Norodom Sihanouk, Norodom Sihanouk's "mercurial" reign, commentators note that Sihamoni has maintained a relatively "quiet" and "low-key" profile, albeit stable reign. Nonetheless, leading national leaders across the political spectrum recognize the King as a unifying force in Cambodian society. Prime Minister Hun Sen gave praise to Sihamoni for honourably carrying out his role as a "symbol of national unity, stability, happiness and prosperity", noting his humanitarianism, as well as efforts in strengthening national prestige and fostering a "spirit of solidarity" amongst Cambodians. Similarly, de facto Leader of the Opposition Sam Rainsy, shares this sentiment, expressing admiration for his ability to bring people together in the national interest, although amid internal political developments that is seen as indicative of Democratic backsliding, this view held by Rainsy has not always been consistent, and it is within this juxtaposition, from a Power (social and political), power politics analytical standpoint, that there are often divergent perspectives concerning the King, between those who implore for his active Politicisation, politicism and those who advocate he sustain his guarded Apoliticism.

Scholar Milton Osborne, regarded as amongst the world’s most distinguished authors specializing in Southeast Asia, commends him as a "dedicated servant of his people" that is "cultured and disciplined”, but he questions the survival of the monarchical institution in a post-Sihamoni era. This is in part, due to past political instability, including historical tensions between the royal family and Prime Minister Hun Sen. However, in recent years, Prime Minister Sen has given steadfast assurances which therefore signals his government's intent to preserve the monarchy long into the future. Prominent Cambodian history professor, Sambo Manara credits Sihamoni as a "morale model" for all Khmer people whom exudes a calm and kind demeanor, underscored by a sincere warmth towards his subjects, notwithstanding some misconceived notions about the King’s role from within some sectors of the population, in particular, the youth demographic.

Reflecting after a royal audience with the King in 2013, then International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde, expressed how she was profoundly touched by his "thoughtfulness and compassion" and how he "not only cares deeply about the welfare of his people, but is clearly passionately devoted to promoting the cultural and artistic heritage of his country." On the occasion of his 68th birthday, ASEAN described King Sihamoni as a monarch who is "cherished and well-respected by the people of Cambodia" and as someone who exemplifies "dignified and humbled leadership", characterized by his frequent engagements with the populace through local visitations. The King's birthday on 14 May in conjunction with his coronation day on 29 October are both annual public holidays in Cambodia and in 2019, a special commemorative 15,000 Cambodian riel, riel was issued in his honour, celebrating the 15th anniversary of his tenure as sovereign. Sihamoni is also featured on the 500, 10,000, and 20,000 Cambodian riel, riels respectively and his portrait, alongside the Norodom Sihanouk, King-father and Norodom Monineath, Queen-mother is prominent across many parts of the country, illustrative of their highly revered status.

Lèse-majesté

In February 2018, the Criminal code, penal code was formally revised to incorporate Lèse-majesté legislation, which makes it an offence to insult the king, pursuant to its promulgation by Cambodia's National Assembly (Cambodia), National Assembly and Senate (Cambodia), Senate and the law came into effect the following month. Human rights groups had voiced concerns that the law may be potentially used to suppress political opponents of the government and considered it to be incompatible with respect to the freedom of speech, though the Ministry of Justice (Cambodia), Ministry of Justice maintains that the law is necessary in protecting the monarchy from people who push the boundaries of said freedom. After this law was enacted, there have been seldom arrests, charges and convictions, with the most notable case being that of Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy. Prior to this legislative enactment, the constitution did acknowledge the “inviolability” of the monarch and this constitutional provision was tested in 2017, when the Ministry of Interior (Cambodia), Ministry of Interior pursued charges against a few individuals who was indignant towards the King on Social media.

Personal life

The King is a bachelor and has no children. As Cambodia is not a hereditary monarchy, but rather an elective monarchy, his future successor will be determined by the Royal Council of the Throne, chosen from the lineage of one of the two royal houses of Cambodia, in accordance with the country's constitution. His parents, King-Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath, when questioned about Sihamoni's marital status, once remarked that he was uninterested in relationships and is instead, rather committed to a monasticism, monastic way of life, underpinned by Buddhism, Buddhist principles. In some respects, Sihamoni is regarded somewhat as an enigmatic figure, with the available literature pointing to a "reflective, deliberate and cultured man" who apparently had reservations in becoming King, yet in spite of this, humbly assumed the solemn responsibility of his position, whilst holding "his cards close to his chest."

Interests

Apart from his interest in the arts and culture, which is well-documented, it is reported that the king "is a man of simple tastes." Purportedly, in his free time he enjoys the peace of meditation, reading, exercising, listening to classical music such as by the likes of Beethoven and observance to traditional Theravada, Buddhist rituals. In addition, it is reported that he enjoys comedy films, is the occasional fan of chocolates, and likes to keep up with current events and news, balancing his personal interests with that of his busy and strict schedule as head of state. His commitment to the duties of a monarch could be seen in 2011 where he famously declined to attend the Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, royal wedding of then Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, which the List of newspapers in the United Kingdom, British tabloids headlined as a "snub." This was quickly refuted by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Cambodia), Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials who informed that a declination notification was indeed advised and that no snub occurred whatsoever. Moreover, alongside having an interest in DVDs relating to ballet and opera in general, he is also skilled at playing the piano and is reputedly a keen reader of reviews covering the Theatre of the Czech Republic, Czech theatre scene.

Languages

Besides his native Khmer language, Khmer, Norodom Sihamoni speaks Czech fluently, the only ruling monarch in the world to do so. The king is also fluent in French language, French and is a conversational speaker of English language, English and Russian language, Russian. He has basic fluency in Mandarin Chinese, Mandarin as well.

Filmography

Then Prince Sihamoni during the 1960s and 1990s starred in a few films, mainly directed by his father, who was a prolific and accomplished Norodom Sihanouk filmography, film-maker. He has also been the subject of Documentary film, documentaries and directed a few films himself.

Titles and styles

Before he was crowned king, his princely royal title was: ''Sdech Krom Khun'' ( km, ស្តេចក្រុមឃុន), or ''His Royal Highness Sdech Krom Khun Norodom Sihamoni'', equating him to the rank of "Great Prince."

As King, his full regnal title is: ''Preah Karuna Preah Bat Sâmdach Preah Bâromneath Norodom Sihamoni Saman Bhumichat Sasana Rakkhata Khattiya Khmeraratrat Putthintra Mohaksat Khemareacheana Samuhobhas Kampuchea Ekareacharath Bureanasanti Subheamagala Sirivibunla Khmera Sri Bireat Preah Chao Krung Kampuchea Dhibodi'' (in romanized Khmer); km, ព្រះករុណាព្រះបាទសម្តេចព្រះបរមនាថ នរោត្តម សីហមុនី សមានភូមិជាតិសាសនា រក្ខតខត្តិយា ខេមរារដ្ឋរាស្ត្រ ពុទ្ធិន្ទ្រាធរាមមហាក្សត្រ ខេមរាជនា សមូហោភាស កម្ពុជឯករាជរដ្ឋបូរណសន្តិ សុភមង្គលា សិរីវិបុលា ខេមរាស្រីពិរាស្ត្រ ព្រះចៅក្រុងកម្ពុជាធិបតី roughly translating to: "His Merciful Excellent Majesty Protector, King Norodom Sihamoni, who unites the nation, religion, realms, and people of Khmer state, the great king who is supported by Buddha and Indra, the protector of independence, unification, and peace, the Great King of the Kingdom of Cambodia". The King's shortened official title is: ''His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of the Kingdom of Cambodia.''

In 2015, he was bestowed the honorary title, ''Dhammika, Preah SriLoka Dhammika Raja'', or "Virtuous King for the Propagation of Buddhism in the World", conferred to him at the Sixth Buddhism, Buddhist Summit in the year prior.

In the military context, he is styled as ''Supreme Commander of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, Royal Khmer Armed Forces'', in line with the country's constitution.

Patronages

As King, Sihamoni has served as the patron of many causes and organizations as well as a range of Non-governmental organization, NGOs and Nonprofit organization, NPOs. This includes, but is not limited to the below list;

Heritage

* Honorary President of ICC-Angkor (International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of Historic Site of Angkor)
* Baphuon Temple at Angkor Restoration Project - Patron
* Greater Angkor Collaborative Research Project - Patron
* Statue of St. John of Nepomuk in Divina, Slovakia - patron of the project of restoration (2017).

Cultural

* Member of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, High Council of French-speaking Countries (2004).
* Foreign Associate Member of the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres (2008).
* International Dance Day - Message Author (2006)
* Mozart at Angkor Musical Showcase - Patron
* Center for Khmer Studies Library, Siem Reap - Patron
* The Nginn Karet Foundation for Cambodia (Preah Ream Buppha Devi NKFC Conservatoire)
* Khmer people, Cambodian Living Arts - Patron
* Technicolour Foundation (MEMORY! International Film Heritage Festival) (2014) - Patron
* Cie Cabaret des Oiseaux - Patron
* GoGo Cambodia Guinness World Records, world record-setting Krama initiative - Patron
* Angkor, Angkor Archaeological Park meditation centre - Patron

Community

* Cambodian Red Cross - Patron
* Krousar Thmey Foundation - 25th Anniversary Ceremony Honorary President
* Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (Cambodia) - Patron of 20th Anniversary and new Mental Health Treatment Center
* Kantha Bopha Foundation - Patron of 20th Anniversary & major benefactor
* Waltzing Around Cambodia Onlus - Patron
* Samdech Techo Project for Mine Action (STP-MA) - Patron
* Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University - Establishing Patron
* Sihanouk Hospital Center of Hope - Patron
* Calmette Hospital Neurology Center (Centre De Neurosciences) - Patron
* Teach Them To Fish Foundation - Patron

Environmental

* Airavata Elephant Foundation - Establishing Patron
* Arbor Day, National Arbor Day - Patron

Honours

National honours

: Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Cambodia
: Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Monisaraphon

Foreign honours

;
: Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, Order of the Legion of Honour (2006)
: Grand Officer of the Legion of Honour, Order of the Legion of Honour (2006)

; :
: Collar and Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum (11 May 2010)

Ecumenical orders

* Order of Saint Lazarus (statuted 1910), Order of Saint Lazarus: Grand Cross of Merit of the Order of Saint Lazarus (statuted 1910), Order of Saint Lazarus (2008)

Awards

* : :cs:Gratias Agit, Gratias Agit Award of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Czech Republic), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2006)
* : Honorary citizenship, Honorary Citizen of the City of Prague (2006)
* : Silver Medal of the City of Paris

Honorary degrees

* Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, Honorary Doctorate (19 March 2010)
* Naresuan University, Honorary Doctorate in Political Science (12 June 2015)
* :sk:Vysoká škola zdravotníctva a sociálnej práce sv. Alžbety v Bratislave, St. Elizabeth University of Health and Social Sciences, Honorary Doctorate in Social Work

Namesakes

* ''Dendrobium'' Norodom Sihamoni, an orchid named in honour of the King (30 March 2006)
* Preah Norodom Sihamoni Primary School, in Chhnuk Trou List of communes in Cambodia, Commune, Baribour district
* Preah Norodom Sihamoni General and Technical Lycée, in Kampot Province
* Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni General and Technical School, Technical Secondary school, High School, in Aur Russei List of communes in Cambodia, Commune, Kampong Tralach District
* Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University, in Phnom Penh
* King Sihamoni Meditation Centre at Angkor, Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap province
* King Norodom Sihamoni Boulevard, in Siem Reap, Siem Reap province
* King Norodom Sihamoni Avenue (landscape), Avenue, in Siem Reap, Siem Reap province
* King Norodom Sihamoni Road, in Siem Reap, Siem Reap province

Ancestry

References

Further reading

* Miroslav Nožina, Jiri Sitler, Jiří Šitler, and Karel Kučera. Royal Ties: King Norodom Sihamoni and the History of Czech-Cambodian Relations. Prague: Knižní klub, 2006.

* Julio A Jeldres. The Royal House of Cambodia [First edition]. Cambodia: Monument Books, 2003. ISBN 974-90881-0-8

* Julio A Jeldres. The Royal House of Cambodia [Second edition]. Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute, 2017.

External links

King Norodom Sihamoni – Official Website


by Antonio Graceffo

Royal du Cambodge
unofficial Facebook page dedicated to sharing Cambodian royal family news (in Khmer)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Norodom, Sihamoni
1953 births
Living people
Cambodian Buddhists
Cambodian Buddhist monarchs
21st-century Cambodian monarchs
Cambodian expatriates in France
Expatriates in the Czech Republic
Cambodian people of Corsican descent
Cambodian people of French descent
Cambodian Theravada Buddhists
Children of prime ministers of Cambodia
Grand Croix of the Légion d'honneur
House of Norodom
People from Phnom Penh
Cambodian people of Italian descent
Permanent Delegates of Cambodia to UNESCO
Members of the Royal Order of Monisaraphon